# Defining the metabolic-epigenetic regulation of neuronal chromatin by alcohol

> **NIH NIH R00** · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · 2024 · $82,465

## Abstract

Abstract
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) represents a significant public health issue with substantial psychological and
economic impacts on individuals, families, and communities. A critical gap persists in understanding the
molecular underpinnings of alcohol addiction, particularly in the context of increasing youth binge drinking.
Current treatments are limited, highlighting the need for research into the molecular mechanisms of AUD,
including the role of epigenetic modifications following chronic alcohol exposure, such as those mediated by
acetate via ACSS2 (Mews et al., 2019). This study focuses on the transport pathways of alcohol-derived
acetate into the brain, investigating the role of monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). The differential
expression of MCT isoforms between neurons and astrocytes also suggests a complex, cell-type-specific role
in AUD, warranting further investigation. This supplementary grant proposal aims to elucidate the role of MCT4
in facilitating the entry of alcohol-derived acetate into the brain, thus contributing to alcohol-induced epigenetic
changes. This research is designed to build upon the foundational discoveries of Mews et al., exploring the
regulation of brain histone acetylation by acetate derived from alcohol metabolism in the liver and its transport
into hippocampal neurons and astrocytes. By exploring alcohol-derived acetate and its transport into neurons,
this research will operate within the scope of the parent grant and complement its objectives while exploring
distinct experimental aims. Additionally, this project will serve as a critical component of Naomi Kassahun’s
training in molecular techniques and independent research towards a F31 grant application, integrating with
her doctoral research objectives and enhancing her development as a future leader in addiction research. This
alignment ensures a comprehensive approach to both advancing AUD research and fostering significant
scientific development.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11082661
- **Project number:** 3R00AA027839-04S1
- **Recipient organization:** BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS
- **Principal Investigator:** Philipp Mews
- **Activity code:** R00 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $82,465
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2020-09-15 → 2026-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11082661

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11082661, Defining the metabolic-epigenetic regulation of neuronal chromatin by alcohol (3R00AA027839-04S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11082661. Licensed CC0.

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